Miami Dolphins

November 28, 1985|By Brian Schmitz of the Sentinel Staff

THIS WEEK: The Dolphins (8-4) play the unbeaten Chicago Bears (12-0) at the Orange Bowl Monday night. The game means different things to each team. The Dolphins need a victory to stay in the thick of the AFC East race. The Bears have already clinched a playoff spot, but they want to remain undefeated to have a shot at matching the unbeaten record turned in by -- guess who? -- the Dolphins in 1972.

WHAT'S HAPPENING: Defensive end Doug Betters (knee) and tackle Jon Geisler (knee) are practicing, and both may play against the Bears. Defensive end Kim Bokamper (shoulder) and tackle Cleveland Green (knee) are both questionable. . . . The Dolphins' offensive line, comprised of just two 1984 starters last week against Buffalo, will be given its greatest test since playing the New York Jets. Miami leads the NFL in fewest sacks surrendered (13); the Bears have 50 sacks this season. . . . The Bears are only one of five teams that has never beaten the Dolphins. Chicago is 0-3. . . . Miami's game plan is so simple yet so complicated: protect Dan Marino, slow Walter Payton and make Steve Fuller throw. Fuller, replacing the injured Jim McMahon, has been carried by Payton and an opportunistic defense. Also, the Dolphins can ill afford to fall behind early. The Bears have one of the best pass rushes in the NFL and have given up only 10.5 points per game. However, Marino's quick release will never be more evident than against the Bears. . . . Also in the Dolphins' favor: the Orange Bowl Jinx. Miami is 94-18-1 at home since 1970. The Dolphins are 5-0 there this season.

COMING UP: Look for Marino to perhaps throw more from the shotgun to negate Bears pass rush. Tailback Tony Nathan also may play a key role -- catching passes out of the backfield.